Rosie, In the past 4 1/2 years since we have been gardening this house, I have kept enlarging the area that is ornamental by removing the grass. I have not yet reached the point where I am throwing out seedlings or plants, and am always thinning them out and tucking them here and there. I really am looking forward to evening out those areas in the spring... that is what I call "light, fun gardening" since it is more like puttering than sweating it out. :) Thanks for your encouragement!Julie

Thanks for your kind encouragement! I will be working on a full post about this garden soon. I love rhythm in a garden, and especially in one my size and being in the front yard, I think that it helps it not look like a mess when people whiz by our corner.Julie

Francoise, So pleased that you find my gardening encouraging in your own. Yes, none of these are expensive plants, or even the newest varieties... but they work so much better together than alone. Hoping to write a full post on this area soon. Thank you for your kind words!Julie

Thanks for sharing your front path. I have a border of a similar width along my front drive which I have struggled with but seeing your border has really helped. Are those Nepeta in the summer pics or Russian Sage?

Hi Julie,I just found your blog and really must say how impressed I am with your garden and your garden map. I added you to my blog favorites bar today on my garden blog down here in Texas.All the best,David/Tropical Texana/ Houston, Texas :0)

Hi Julie - Your gardening style is inspirational to me ... I love all the plants you use in this area of your garden and how beautiful it looks, all year round!! You've given me SO many ideas and lots of inspiration!